Counterbalance and reach trucks are the two most common forklifts in UK warehouses, and they are different enough that training on one does not qualify you for the other. If you are deciding which course you or your team need, understanding what each truck does makes the choice straightforward. This guide compares the two and explains the training you need for each.
What is a counterbalance forklift?
The counterbalance is the classic forklift most people picture. It has forks at the front and a weight at the back that balances the load, and it drives straight up to a stack to lift and place goods. It is versatile, works indoors and outdoors, and is the natural starting point for many operators.
What is a reach truck?
A reach truck is designed for narrow aisle warehouse racking. Its forks reach forward into the racking, which allows it to work in much tighter spaces than a counterbalance and to lift to greater heights. It is an indoor machine built for high density storage, and it handles quite differently from a counterbalance.
Why you need separate training
Because the two trucks handle, balance and operate differently, being trained and tested on one does not make you competent on the other. Employers must ensure operators are trained on the specific truck they will use, so a counterbalance operator moving to reach truck work needs conversion training, and the same applies the other way around.
Which training do you need?
- New to forklifts? Start with a novice course on the truck type you will use.
- Experienced on one truck? A conversion course efficiently adds the other.
- Already trained but out of practice? A refresher keeps your certification and skills current.
Our Counterbalance and Reach Truck training covers both machines, and dedicated reach truck and counterbalance novice courses are available for new operators.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive a reach truck with a counterbalance certificate?
No. The trucks operate differently, so you need training and assessment specific to each. A conversion course bridges the gap for experienced operators.
Which is harder to operate, a reach truck or a counterbalance?
Neither is harder as such, they are simply different. Reach trucks take some adjustment because of how the forks extend and how the machine handles in narrow aisles.
Do I need refresher training for both trucks?
If you operate both, keeping certification current on each is good practice, and refresher training can cover the trucks you use.
Train on the right truck with National Compliance Training
Whether you need counterbalance, reach truck or both, our accredited courses match the training to the job.
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